Camino de Santiago (12th day)
12/05/2025
Day tour to Fisterra/Finisterre
We took a full day bus tour from Santiago to the coast of Spain. They were calling for rain but thankfully by afternoon it was beautiful blue skies. It was a great day and so nice to ride a bus instead of walking today! Our first stop was the fishing village of Muros.
Carnota
We made a very quick stop to see a very large horreo in Carnota. Many horreos can be found throughout this region and it is illegal to remove or damage them as they are considered historical artifacts. I saw several along the Camino and this is certainly much larger than others. They are used to store grain (corn). The grain is elevated to keep away moisture and the round discs on the bottom keep the mice out.
Ezaro waterfall
The Ezaro waterfall is the only one in the region that flows into the ocean. Hydroelectric power plant next door. There is a dam at the top of the hill and water is brought down through large pipes to the plant.
Finisterre (Fisterra)
We made it to the end of the world! Finisterre is also called Fisterra in Galician. It is also the end of the Camino, if a pilgrim continues the journey beyond the cathedral. Note the 0 km remaining on the Camino marker/sign. The lighthouse is the Faro de Fisterra.
Muxia
The most beautiful coastal views I have ever seen. Between the solemn music being played from the church to the sweeping views/sounds of the ocean at high tide, this was an emotional moment for me.
Medieval bridge in Pontemaceira
The Pontemaceira bridge was built right at the entrance of this village over the Tambre in the 12th century, utilizing the pillars of an earlier Roman bridge. It consists of five main ashlar arches and two relief arches at the approaches.
Around the town of Santiago
Pasteis de Nata pastry was delicious and served slightly warm. Lottery tickets are often for sale by street vendors and they even come into the bars selling tickets. The wisteria smelled and looked so lovely.
Headed home
It’s time to head home and say goodbye to the Camino. Some have asked if I will return to do other Camino routes in the future. Maybe too soon to answer. There are so many other parts of the world I would like to see including other parts of Spain. I certainly would recommend walking at least a portion of the Camino de Santiago if able. I loved meeting pilgrims from the USA and other parts of the world. I loved the kindness and willingness to help others that is shown by the pilgrims along the way. I loved the beautiful views (especially as we climbed O’Cerbrieo) as well as saying good morning to all the animals and birds. I learned that I am stronger than I think. Until next time, Buen Camino!
